As states and employers work to address growing workforce shortages, higher education leaders are increasingly examining whether existing college systems reflect the realities of today’s learners. In California, demand continues to grow for skilled professionals across healthcare, technology, education, and other critical industries. At the same time, many aspiring students encounter barriers that make it difficult to access, persist in, and complete degree programs aligned with workforce needs.
In a recent article for The EvoLLLution, National University President Mark Milliron argues that California’s higher education policies must evolve to better serve the modern learner. Today’s students are often balancing education alongside work, parenting, military service, and other responsibilities. At National University, these learners are known as “ANDers” because they are pursuing their education and managing other significant life commitments. Milliron notes that higher education systems designed around the traditional full-time, residential student model may no longer meet the needs of a student population that is increasingly diverse in both experience and circumstance.
The article highlights opportunities to better support working learners through more flexible financial aid policies, expanded online and hybrid learning options, improved transfer pathways, and stronger recognition of prior learning gained through work, military service, and industry credentials. By reducing barriers and creating more adaptable pathways, colleges can help learners move more efficiently from education to employment while supporting the talent needs of California’s economy.
For National University, serving working adults, military-affiliated students, and nontraditional learners has been central to its mission for more than 50 years. Through flexible learning models, workforce-aligned programs, and a commitment to Whole Human Education™, the university continues to help students balance education with work, family, and life responsibilities while preparing for meaningful career opportunities and long-term success.
Learn More:
Read the full article, To Meet Workforce Demands, California Should Embrace Working Learners, in The EvoLLLution. Learn more about how National University supports working adults and lifelong learners through flexible, career-focused education at https://www.nu.edu/.
